Hey guys. I am coming off of a lease of a 08 Pathfinder. I previously had a 03 PF. Before that I hadve a 00 JC and a 98 JGC.

I am looking for a vehicle to buy and keep/be reliable for the next 5-10 years. I had previous problems w/the jeep line w/the tranny needing replaced under 100,000 miles. So reliability is a bit concerning.

I am considering a Toyota 4Runner. There known reliability is comforting. I like the design. However, for being a new redesign in 2010, the truck seems way behind the new JGC.

I really like the style of the new JGC. Much more modern looking, with more modern options. Also like the option of the 5.8 Hemi. Also, it sounds like it is a much better on road vehicle w/o losing its off road abilities. For the price I can get more out of the JGC. Thinking about a base Limited w/V6 versus a Laredo X w/Hemi.

Also considering looking at the new Ford Explorer, however it seems to have been turned into a crossover vehicle.

If anybody can answer a few questions I would appreciate it.

1. How is the 5 speed tranny in the JGC. I understand it was in the previous version of the JGC. Is it reliable?

We have a new Overland 4x4 with the Hemi and it is a screamer when you want it to be and a nice docile ride when you need that as well. I love the new GC for many reasons but I can't get over how this thing feels almost like a crossover but you have all the capabilities of a serious off-roader. Style and quality of materials is remarkable as well. Don't be scared of buying this Jeep, it is a whole new animal. I won't comment too much about my former impressions of jeep...let's just say I told the dealer that I couldn't believe that we were looking at a new Jeep GC but after reading the reviews we had to look. Then after driving it, we had to have it!!! This GC has a lot of Daimler (MB) influence and it shows.

I've not seen the pano roof as an option on a Laredo, I think it may be a special order option but I'm sure you could order one with it.

Yeahh.. the tranny is same in the WK as is in the WKII... Seems only a handful have reached over 100k, but majority of us are start'n to get close. My transmission runs great, but the thing with the transmission, like most things... If you take care of it, it'll take care of you. If I were you, I'd just go with the Laredo X with a 5.7 Hemi. It's what I would do if I'm in the market for a WKII. I don't like the new 4 Runner.. not because it's a Toyota, just it's ugly. I like the previous model, but then when you lift it... it looks funny.

Please don't consider a new explorer. The guys at ford turned that into a complete crossover. It uses a front wheel drive platform with awd. The new gc is much more of an suv than the explorer. My only concern with the new gc is the lack of solid axles but I'm sure the aftermarket will come out with some pretty sick mods for it.